Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has seen an explosive rise in popularity over the past few decades, evolving from underground rave scenes to becoming a global phenomenon. At the heart of this genre are the DJs who create, remix, and perform music that moves best edm djs on dance floors worldwide. EDM has given rise to superstar DJs who dominate festival lineups and streaming charts. Let's explore some of the best EDM DJs who have shaped the sound of this vibrant genre.

1. Martin Garrix

When discussing EDM's top DJs, Martin Garrix is an undeniable force. The Dutch producer rose to fame with his 2013 hit "Animals," which became a global anthem. Since then, he has continuously delivered chart-topping tracks like "Scared to Be Lonely" and "In the Name of Love." Garrix is known for blending melodic progressions with powerful drops, creating tracks that resonate both on the radio and at major music festivals like Tomorrowland and Ultra. His versatility in collaborating with pop artists has only cemented his place as one of EDM's biggest stars.

2. Calvin Harris

Hailing from Scotland, Calvin Harris has transcended the EDM scene with his unique sound that blends house music, pop, and electro. Over the years, Harris has become synonymous with party anthems, releasing massive hits like "Summer," "Feel So Close," and "We Found Love" featuring Rihanna. His ability to craft infectious hooks and danceable beats has made him one of the highest-paid DJs globally. In addition to producing club bangers, Harris is a master of crossover tracks that appeal to a wide audience beyond EDM's core fan base.

3. David Guetta

A pioneer in the fusion of EDM and mainstream pop, David Guetta has been a major influence on the genre's global success. With hits like "Titanium," "Memories," and "Without You," Guetta has managed to create anthems that resonate far beyond the dance music community. His collaborations with big names such as Sia, Nicki Minaj, and Usher have led to widespread commercial success. Guetta's music is known for its high-energy vibe, blending euphoric vocals with thumping basslines, making him a fixture at major festivals and events around the world.

4. Skrillex

If there’s one DJ who is synonymous with the dubstep revolution, it’s Skrillex. Known for his aggressive drops and futuristic sounds, Skrillex redefined EDM with tracks like "Bangarang," "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites," and "First of the Year (Equinox)." His unique fusion of dubstep, electro, and glitch-hop pushed boundaries and brought EDM to the forefront of mainstream culture in the early 2010s. Skrillex’s influence extends beyond his solo work as he has been involved in numerous collaborations and projects, ranging from electronic music supergroups to producing for artists like Justin Bieber.

5. Tiësto

Often referred to as one of the "godfathers" of EDM, Tiësto has been a driving force in electronic music for over two decades. Starting his career as a trance DJ, Tiësto has evolved his sound over the years, seamlessly transitioning into house, electro, and big room genres. His tracks like "Red Lights," "Boom," and "The Business" have showcased his ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape. Tiësto’s dynamic live performances and unwavering presence in the EDM scene make him one of the genre's most respected figures.

6. Marshmello

Recognizable by his white helmet and mysterious persona, Marshmello has quickly risen through the ranks of EDM. Known for his feel-good, upbeat tracks, Marshmello has created hits like "Alone," "Happier," and "Silence," which have earned him a loyal fan base across genres. His ability to craft emotional yet danceable tracks has led to collaborations with artists like Khalid, Selena Gomez, and Bastille. Marshmello's brand, combined with his energetic live performances, has made him one of the most popular DJs in modern EDM.

7. Armin van Buuren

A legend in the trance scene, Armin van Buuren is revered for his ability to create euphoric and melodic journeys through sound. With his long-running radio show A State of Trance, Armin has built a dedicated following of trance enthusiasts. Tracks like "Blah Blah Blah" and "This Is What It Feels Like" have helped him stay at the forefront of the EDM world. Armin's live sets, particularly his marathon performances at festivals, are known for their epic build-ups and emotional moments, making him a favorite among trance lovers.

8. Zedd

Russian-German DJ Zedd has established himself as a powerhouse in EDM through his polished productions and catchy melodies. Tracks like "Clarity," "Stay the Night," and "The Middle" have made him a household name. Zedd's classically trained background allows him to blend intricate musical elements with modern EDM sounds, creating anthems that are both artistic and accessible. His collaborations with mainstream artists have further solidified his place in both the pop and electronic worlds.

9. The Chainsmokers

As a duo, The Chainsmokers have dominated the EDM scene with their unique blend of electronic beats and pop hooks. Tracks like "Closer," "Don't Let Me Down," and "Paris" have become massive hits, blending storytelling with infectious rhythms. While their earlier work focused more on club-ready drops, their sound has evolved into more emotional, radio-friendly music. The Chainsmokers' versatility and ability to produce both festival anthems and radio hits have kept them at the forefront of the EDM landscape.

10. Diplo

A genre-blending pioneer, Diplo has been a central figure in shaping not just EDM, but popular music as a whole. From his work with Major Lazer to his solo productions and his involvement in projects like Jack Ü (with Skrillex), Diplo has consistently pushed boundaries with his unique blend of electronic, dancehall, and trap influences. His tracks like "Where Are Ü Now" and "Be Right There" have left an indelible mark on the EDM scene, while his ability to cross into various genres keeps his sound fresh and innovative.

Conclusion

The world of EDM is as dynamic and diverse as the DJs who create it. From chart-topping anthems to underground beats, the best EDM DJs have shaped the sound of electronic music, each bringing their unique flair and energy to the genre. Whether it's through explosive festival performances or studio collaborations, these artists continue to define and redefine what it means to be at the top of the EDM world. With each DJ offering their distinct sound, the future of EDM looks as exciting as ever.